18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.62 percent of the residents in 18235 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.49 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 18235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,756 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18235. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,645 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Lehighton, PA (ZIP Code 18235)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Lehighton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18235) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of healthcare services, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. This analysis aims to provide an “Overall Health Score” assessment, examining key aspects like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Lehighton is crucial. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources and reports from organizations like the Pennsylvania Department of Health can offer insights into the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 18235 ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio might point to potential challenges in scheduling appointments, longer wait times, and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of physicians is also a critical factor. Are primary care physicians concentrated in specific areas of Lehighton, potentially leaving other areas underserved? Do they accept a variety of insurance plans, ensuring accessibility for a diverse population? Addressing these questions provides a more nuanced understanding of primary care availability.

Identifying standout primary care practices within Lehighton is another essential component of the analysis. This involves evaluating factors beyond just the number of physicians. Patient reviews, online ratings, and accreditations from reputable healthcare organizations can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided. Practices known for their patient-centered approach, offering comprehensive services, and demonstrating a commitment to preventative care are likely to receive higher marks in this assessment. Furthermore, the availability of specialized services within these practices, such as on-site lab testing or chronic disease management programs, can also influence their overall score.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant shift in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Lehighton. Telemedicine offers numerous benefits, including increased access to care, reduced travel time for patients, and improved management of chronic conditions. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in the 18235 ZIP code is vital. This involves determining whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, or online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies are likely to be viewed favorably in this assessment.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health and wellbeing. The availability of mental health services in Lehighton is a critical factor in the health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the community. The analysis should consider the accessibility of these services, including insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and the availability of support groups or community mental health programs. A robust network of mental health resources is essential for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population.

The integration of behavioral health services within primary care settings is also important. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, can provide more comprehensive and coordinated care. This integrated approach can improve patient outcomes and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.

The overall health score for Lehighton should consider the presence of other healthcare facilities, such as urgent care clinics, specialized medical practices, and hospitals. The proximity and accessibility of these facilities can impact the overall health of the community. Furthermore, the availability of community health programs, such as health education initiatives, preventative screening programs, and support groups, should be factored into the score. These programs play a vital role in promoting health and wellbeing within the community.

Data from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations, will be gathered and analyzed to arrive at an overall health score. This score will reflect the availability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare services within the 18235 ZIP code. The score will be a composite of the factors discussed above, weighted based on their relative importance.

The final health score will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the healthcare system, inform decision-making, and guide efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of the community. Regular updates to the score will be necessary to track progress and adapt to changing healthcare needs.

Ultimately, the assessment aims to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Lehighton, Pennsylvania. By analyzing the key factors discussed above, a comprehensive and informative health score can be derived. This score will reflect the community’s overall health and guide future improvements.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lehighton, including the locations of primary care physicians, healthcare facilities, and community resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can highlight the availability and accessibility of healthcare services in the 18235 ZIP code.